FAQ Category: Community Development

Encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags, containers, and utensils for a more sustainable experience. Technical assistance services will offer a brief tutorial on properly accepting customer brought cups and containers in accordance with AB 619. Pinole is creating a resource repository to highlight businesses that actively encourage reusables, supporting both compliance, customer loyalty,…

Businesses may apply for a waiver if they can demonstrate that no compliant items with similar utility are available or if compliance would cause undue financial hardship. However, waiver applications may only be submitted after a business has requested and received free technical assistance from the City, which includes sourcing guidance and other support.

Yes, Pinole offers free technical assistance, including a compliant product sourcing guide, inventory conversions, distributor connections, cost-effective solutions (integrating reusables, optimizing packaging, community bargaining, etc.), and waiver support. The city will also maintain a resource listing businesses that encourage reusable options, helping you attract sustainability-minded customers.

Each business must maintain written records evidencing compliance with the ordinance. These records should be readily available for inspection by the city if requested.

Disposable bags must meet specific standards, such as being unbleached, made from at least 40% post-consumer recycled content paper, or plant starch-based. All qualifying single-use bags must include a minimum 15-cent fee for customers (excluding certain food service bags where the fee is optional).

No, disposable foodware accessories (e.g., utensils, straws) may only be provided upon request or by self-service stations. This includes all ordering platforms, whether digital, phone, or in-person, as required by state law. Additionally, utensils cannot be bundled and/or wrapped.

Yes, businesses may apply a surcharge for disposable foodware to help offset compliance costs. Retailers must charge a 15-cent fee for qualifying single-use bags, but food service businesses have the option to charge or not charge this fee at their discretion. All surcharges must be clearly communicated to customers and itemized on receipts.

The ordinance applies to all food service establishments, retailers, caterers, food trucks, private schools and any person or organization using city facilities or operating at city-sponsored events. The city itself is also required to comply with these rules, ensuring sustainable practices across all operations.

Businesses must use foodware that is compostable, unbleached, and free from fluorinated chemicals like PFAS. Items such as plastic cutlery, cups, plates, and takeout containers made from petroleum-based plastics and bioplastics (e.g., PLA) are not permitted. Acceptable materials include natural fibers like wood, bamboo, and paper. Foil to wrap and form food is allowed.